Richmond Pedestrian Attorney for Amputation Cases

If you or a loved one suffered a amputation or limb loss in a pedestrian collision in Richmond, you are facing both a life-changing injury and a legally complex claim. Attorney Michael Martinovsky provides personal, hands-on representation to Richmond pedestrian victims — in English, Spanish, and Russian — with no fee unless we win.

Pedestrian crashes and amputation or limb loss in Richmond

Richmond carries heavy industrial, port, and bridge traffic along the I-80 and I-580 corridors and the Richmond–San Rafael Bridge. A person on foot struck by a vehicle has no protection at all, so pedestrian collisions frequently cause catastrophic or fatal injuries even at low speeds. These cases turn on right-of-way, driver attention, and — increasingly — whether a commercial or rideshare vehicle was involved.

The loss of a limb — whether at the scene or through later surgical amputation — is among the most life-altering injuries a collision can cause. It permanently affects mobility, independence, the ability to work, and quality of life, and often requires prosthetics, repeated surgeries, and long-term therapy.

Why these cases are high value

Pedestrian injuries are often severe, and the sources of recovery can be substantial: the at-fault driver's liability policy, the pedestrian's own auto UM/UIM coverage (which can apply even though you were walking), and, where a commercial or rideshare vehicle was involved, much larger commercial policies.

Compensation available in a California amputation or limb loss claim

Full compensation in a Richmond pedestrian case involving a amputation or limb loss may include economic damages — past and future medical care, lost wages and diminished earning capacity, rehabilitation, and the cost of home or vehicle modifications — and non-economic damages for pain, suffering, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. Because amputation typically requires a lifetime of prosthetic replacement, rehabilitation, and adaptive equipment, and frequently ends or limits a career, the lifetime cost can be very high. Documenting future prosthetic and medical needs with qualified experts is essential to a full recovery.

The legal framework

• Driver duty and right-of-way. California Vehicle Code § 21950 requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks; a violation is strong evidence of negligence.
• Comparative fault. Even if the pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk, California's pure comparative negligence rule allows recovery, reduced by any share of fault — and drivers still have a duty to exercise due care.
• Your own UM/UIM coverage may apply. A pedestrian struck by an uninsured or underinsured driver can often recover under the UM/UIM coverage on their own auto policy.

Local context: Richmond

Serious pedestrian collisions in Richmond frequently occur along Interstate 80, Interstate 580, the Richmond–San Rafael Bridge, San Pablo Avenue, and Richmond Parkway. A lawsuit arising from a Richmond crash is generally filed in the Contra Costa County Superior Court, 725 Court Street, Martinez, CA 94553, and Attorney Martinovsky is experienced litigating in Contra Costa County courts.

Evidence to preserve

Critical evidence in a pedestrian case can disappear quickly. In a amputation or limb loss claim, preserving the following early can be decisive:

• the police (traffic collision) report and any traffic-camera footage
• the crosswalk, signal timing, and roadway markings at the scene
• the vehicle's event data recorder (speed and braking)
• surveillance video from nearby businesses
• witness statements taken before memories fade

Time limits to bring a California claim

California generally allows two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1), and wrongful death claims are subject to the same two-year period. When a government entity is involved — for example, a publicly owned vehicle or a dangerous public road — a formal claim must usually be filed within six months under the Government Claims Act (Government Code § 911.2). Because deadlines can be shorter and physical evidence fades quickly, it is important to act promptly after a Richmond pedestrian collision.

Frequently Asked Questions

This page provides general legal information about California law, not legal advice for any specific case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. For advice about your situation, speak with an attorney.

Related pages

• Pedestrian Accidents
• Auto Collision Knowledge Base
• Auto Collision Attorney in Richmond
• Resources & Knowledge Base